WORLDEF Dubai exceeds expectations with visitors from 82 countries

By Sibel Morrow

DUBAI (AA) - The WORLDEF Dubai e-commerce forum has attracted a record number of participants, drawing visitors from 82 countries, WORLDEF CEO Omer Nart said on Wednesday.

"We had 125 booths and around 10,000 visitors, doubling our initial projection of 5,000. This reflects the surge in e-commerce momentum in this region post-pandemic. Exhibitors from 25 countries and visitors from 82 nations attended," Nart told Anadolu, the global media partner of the two-day event.

Nart emphasized Dubai's pivotal role as a trade gateway not only for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) but also for Africa, South Asia, and neighboring regions.

"Dubai is more than its (the UAE’s) 9-10 million population. It’s a gateway to the entire region. Viewing it solely through its local market is an incomplete analysis," Nart said, adding that the city is a key to access broader regional markets.

Highlighting strategic partnerships, Nart explained: "Our main partner here is Dubai Commercity, a trade-focused free zone established in 2019 with $1 billion in capital. After representatives from Dubai attended our events for two years, they proposed hosting the forum in Dubai, marking the start of our journey here," he said.

Nart underlined Dubai’s ability to cater to a broader region, noting Saudi Arabia’s $32 billion e-commerce market and significant potential flows from North and South Africa, India, and Pakistan.

"The country’s infrastructure, regulations, and customs processes are tailored to facilitate trade," he added.

- Strong Turkish representation

Approximately 35 Turkish brands participated in the event, showcasing their presence at the Turkey Pavilion.

"These brands have recognized Dubai’s importance as an operational hub for the region. Establishing a permanent presence requires local infrastructure like teams, offices, and warehouses," Nart explained.

Nart also shared plans to expand into Asia and Europe.

"We aim to enter Asia by 2026, with discussions ongoing in Singapore. Simultaneously, we are targeting Europe via Frankfurt. One of these locations will become our third event hub," he said.